Frequently Asked Questions

What is unique about your program?

Our program offers a state-of-the-arts computer lab, two
award-winning publications, instructors who were working journalists
on local publications, a coaching program for students, internship
opportunities because of our close ties with the publishing community
in the Bay Area, and curriculum that keeps pace with the changing
needs of today's newsrooms.

The department offers an AA degree in journalism that takes about
two years to complete. It also offers a Transfer degree that creates a
clear transition to a four-year university. A Certificate of Award in
journalism is also available in Online Research and another in
Editorial Management & Design for those students only wishing to
gain journalistic skills for possible employment within an 18-month period.

If I complete two-years of study in your program and I want to
transfer to a four-year college, is that possible?

Yes, it is possible to transfer to a four-year institution. Students
in our program have enrolled at San Francisco State University, U.C.
Berkeley, San Jose State University, Humboldt State University, and
U.C. Santa Cruz, just to name a few.

Will I encounter any problems enrolling in one your courses?

No, you should not encounter any problems enrolling in our courses.
Enrollment in our department is moderate. Class size is about 20
students per class, which allows for plenty of opportunities to
interact with faculty and fellow students.

What kinds of jobs can I expect to qualify for once I complete two
years of study in your program?

The department has been able to prepare students for entry-level
positions in newspaper design & pagination, copyediting,
photojournalism, and news writing.

Are internships available to students in the program?

Yes, the department has working relations with numerous neighborhood
newspapers and some alternative publications in the area. Instructors
in our department also have connections with the two daily papers,
S.F. Chronicle and the S.F. Examiner, as well as media associations
like the San Francisco Neighborhood Newspaper Association, the Bay
Area Writers Guild, the Journalism Association of Community Colleges,
College Media Association, Society of Professional Journalists,
California Newspaper Publishers Association, and the Associated
Collegiate Press.

Does the department offer any scholarships?

The department has a $100 scholarship for continuing students. The
application deadline is April 1. The department also has an in-house
bulletin board with postings of journalism scholarships, events,
internships, and jobs.